As the digital age continues to evolve, the complexities surrounding music and copyright have never been more significant.
To address these intricacies, Eric Grella, Music Formation Facilitator in the Diocese’s Mission Enhancement Team will be running a workshop that delves into the legal obligations and ethical issues related to music and copyright. Music ministry members in parishes across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of music copyright, empowering them to navigate this landscape confidently and responsibly.
Copyright law is designed to protect the rights of creators, ensuring they receive proper recognition and remuneration for their work. The workshop will discuss the legal obligations that come with using copyrighted music, highlighting the importance of obtaining the necessary permissions and licences. Ethical considerations underpin these laws, emphasising respect for the intellectual property of artists and creators.
Attendees will gain insight into the potential consequences of copyright infringement, which can include legal action and financial penalties. Understanding these risks will better equip participants to make informed decisions about their use of music, photocopying, and projections.
Navigating the world of music licences can be daunting, with various types available depending on the specific needs of a parish. The workshop will cover the different licences available, including those for streaming, and commercial events such as fundraisers or concerts.
A key focus will be on streaming licences, which have become increasingly relevant in today’s digital age. As more churches publish their services and events online, understanding the requirements for streaming music legally is crucial. The workshop will provide a detailed overview of the types of streaming licences available and how to obtain them.
Accurate reporting of music usage is essential for compliance with copyright laws and for ensuring that creators are fairly compensated. The workshop will demonstrate how to use platforms like ONELICENSE and CCLI for reporting music usage. These tools are invaluable for churches, providing a straightforward way to manage and report their use of copyrighted music.
The process of setting up accounts, logging usage, and understanding the reporting requirements of each platform will be covered. By the end of the session, participants will have the practical knowledge needed to confidently report their music usage, ensuring they meet their legal obligations.
This workshop on music and copyright is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal and ethical considerations involved in using music. By exploring different types of licences and demonstrating how to report music usage accurately, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of music copyright.
Join this informative and engaging session to ensure your use of music is both legally compliant and ethically sound. Your participation will help foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the responsibilities involved in using music at church.
The Music Copyright workshop will be held this week on Tuesday 30 July at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre, Blacktown. For more information, please contact Lucy in the Office for Worship team via lucy.woodbury@parracatholic.org.
If you wish to learn more about music usage in your parish, please contact Eric Grella on eric.grella@parracatholic.org.
